Evaluation of Physical Function and Quality of Life Before and After Non-Radical Surgery for Stage I Cervical Cancer

Protocol

13-210

Full Title

Evaluation of Physical Function and Quality of Life (QOL) Before and After Non-Radical Surgical Therapy (Extra Fascial Hysterectomy or Cone Biopsy with Pelvic Lymphadenectomy) For Stage IA1 (LVSI+) and IA2-IB1 (< or equal to 2CM) Cervical Cancer(GOG 278)

Disease Status

Newly Diagnosed

Purpose

The standard therapy for early-stage cervical cancer has been radical hysterectomy, which involves surgery to remove the uterus along with tissue behind and around the uterus. Some patients, however, may be candidates for less radical surgery that may be associated with fewer side effects and better quality of life.

In this study, researchers are analyzing the side effects, physical function, sexual function, surgical complications, and quality of life of women with stage I cervical cancer who are treated with one of two less radical surgical approaches. One approach is removal of the uterus as well as pelvic lymph nodes, but not the tissue around the uterus (“simple hysterectomy”). The second approach, an option for women wishing to preserve their fertility, involves removal of part of the cervix (“cone biopsy”) and pelvic lymph nodes, but not the uterus.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials can offer you access to a new, experimental treatment before it is available to most patients. Joining a clinical trial is also a way to make a valuable contribution toward the fight against cancer.